National Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. With 194 member states, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide, including South Africa. The organization aims to achieve the 2030 Agenda by supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. FAO's mission includes assisting governments in developing policies, programs, and projects to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and sustainably manage environmental and natural resources. The FAO Country Office in South Africa is responsible for designing and implementing country-specific field programs and liaising with local donors to promote FAO initiatives.

Job Overview:
The National Project Coordinator will play a crucial role in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the project titled 'Building a Resilient Future: Strengthening Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response in South Africa through a One Health Approach.' This project, which is set to run from 2025 to 2027, aims to enhance national health systems' ability to respond to pandemics through improved surveillance, laboratory systems, and capacity building. The coordinator will be responsible for ensuring that project activities align with the objectives of the Pandemic Fund Project and will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies and international organizations, to facilitate effective project execution.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Coordinator will lead and coordinate the overall execution of the Pandemic Fund Project in South Africa. Key responsibilities include developing project workplans and implementation schedules, managing relationships with the Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, and facilitating regular project meetings with national agencies and implementing entities. The coordinator will also organize Steering Committee meetings, present project progress updates, prepare and submit periodic reports, manage project budgets, supervise project personnel, engage with stakeholders, monitor implementation progress, and coordinate country missions in support of the project. Additionally, the coordinator will be responsible for preparing comprehensive workshop reports and undertaking other relevant tasks as agreed upon with the FAO Representation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University Degree in Agriculture, specifically in Animal Health or Production, and have at least 5 years of relevant experience in Animal Health or Production and Health. A working knowledge of English is essential, and candidates must be nationals of South Africa. FAO core competencies include a focus on results, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Technical skills required include a strong understanding of communication and documentation standards, corporate computerized financial systems, and administrative procedures and policies.

Educational Background:
The position requires a University Degree in Agriculture, with a specialization in Animal Health or Production. Candidates must have their qualifications recognized by an institution accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the fields of Animal Health or Production and Health. Proven experience in project development, management, and execution within the FAO framework is highly desirable. Familiarity with South African animal disease control and surveillance systems, including early warning and emergency preparedness, is also advantageous.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The appointment is subject to security clearances. For further employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.